The Morris House Hotelhttp://morrishousehotel.com The Morris House HotelFri, 27 Feb 2015 20:28:46 +0000en-UShourly1A Lesson In Wine And Cheese Pairinghttp://morrishousehotel.com/a-lesson-in-wine-and-cheese-pairing/ http://morrishousehotel.com/a-lesson-in-wine-and-cheese-pairing/#commentsFri, 27 Feb 2015 20:17:10 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1363Wine and cheese can make a wonderful pair when done right. When pairing wine with cheese, it is important to consider the acidity, character and texture of the cheese as well as the acidity and character of the wine. A fruity wine tends to do well with a younger, more salty cheese. A deep, robust wine can be a better match with a more mature cheese. Pairing wine and cheese is really a personal consideration. This is important when pairing, as personal preference will play a large part in the overall experience, and experimentation is often acceptable.

Pairing Of Soft & Mature Cheeses

Soft cheeses are typically young and salty, lending themselves to a nice pairing with a young, fruity wine. These wines contain lower levels of tannin, the chemical which provides the sharp, robust flavor in more mature wines. Brie cheese, for example is usually served very young. It becomes mature and may even turn black when left to age from just six months to a year. Brie is tangy and salty, making a nice pairing with dessert wines such as sweet Riesling or young American fruit wines like pear, peach, sweet red or Dessert Port. For a different experience, Chardonnay, Brute Champagne or Pinot Noir can also match beautifully. Similarly, soft young cheeses such as Blue, Goat or Sheep cheese lend themselves nicely to these pairings.

More mature cheeses tend to complement more mature wines. As cheeses age, they evaporate moisture. This consolidates flavor, leaving proteins and fats while removing some of the delicate aromatics that young cheeses present. Aged wines tend to have deeper flavors, taking on notes such as oak from the cask and developing tannins. A more mature cheese holds a robust texture and deep flavors that pair nicely with robust wines. Pairing an aged Cheddar with Cabernet Sauvignon or a mature Gouda with Merlot can be a perfect match. The sharp tannins and notes of oak, earth, dark fruit and high acidity in a mature wine stand up well against the nutty, bold taste of these cheeses. Fontina and Gruyere are also hard, mature cheeses that benefit from a deeper wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Bardolino.

Old World Pairings Of Tangy Cheeses

A more old world pairing can be enjoyed with Gewurztraminer wine matched with Chevre, Muenster or Swiss cheese. These tangy cheeses are perfectly prepared to meld with the sweet pineapple and grapefruit notes to be found in this time tested big brother of Moscato, which can be undone by these cheeses. Gorgonzola cheese is a better match for that sweet Italian treat. Chianti, another beautiful Italian wine is complemented nicely with Prolovone or Mozarella.

The pairing of cheese and wine will always be a personal preference for each individual. It can be noted that some things just do not go well together. A pairing should be a complement, where the character of the wine is enhanced by the character of the cheese. Most people will not appreciate a delicate cheese paired with a deep, robust wine like Malbec because the taste of the cheese will be lost. Similarly, a fruity, young wine will seldom pair nicely with a sharp, mature cheese. The delicate flavors in the wine present a light, aromatic experience that is overwhelmed by the sharp fats and proteins of cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano. Experimentation is the key to success and you can certainly experiment at our wine and cheese Thursdays.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/a-lesson-in-wine-and-cheese-pairing/feed/0Valentine’s Day Things To Do In Philadelphiahttp://morrishousehotel.com/valentines-day-things-philadelphia/ http://morrishousehotel.com/valentines-day-things-philadelphia/#commentsFri, 13 Feb 2015 16:01:48 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1356Valentine’s Day is here, meaning that you need to set some time aside to spend with that special someone in your life. Although you could do something while ensconced in the comforts of your own home, that would be a shame when there are so many opportunities for romance that can be found throughout the City of Philadelphia.

A Memorable Valentine’s Day In The City Of Love

If you are still searching for the best way to spend Valentine’s Day, please consider these examples of what can be found:

The Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is open until March 1, meaning that it is not too late to spend a romantic night skating out on the ice. Better still, the winterfest comes with all of the amenities of the Delaware River Waterfront, which range from mouth-watering food and cocktails to shopping and other seasonal attractions.

For sightseeing, head on over to the John F. Kennedy Plaza, or as it is better known, the LOVE Park. Its sculpture of the word is its most famous attraction, but the rest of its sites are well worth seeing. If you are interested in either mementos or a bite to eat, rest assured that the plaza has the facilities needed to accommodate those needs as well.

The Race Street Pier is a secluded oasis of peace, perfect for a picnic with that special someone out on Valentine’s Day. Sitting in the shadow of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, it offers a spectacular view of the Delaware River that contrasts well with the trees planted along its length. In fact, the Race Street Pier sits so low that it is on the edge at high tide, making it an excellent spot to watch the soothing rhythm of the water.

Whatever your palate and whatever the palate of your special someone, know that Philadelphia restaurants are prepared to serve everything ranging from French fare and Italian favorites to Chinese classics and Mexican tapas. In other words, you and your special someone are sure to find something suited to both of your palates.

Dinner & A Night In

Since Valentine’s Day falls on a long weekend in 2015, it would be a shame to miss the chance for a romantic meal and a night at one of the hotels. Likewise, consider ending the day with a romantic night at Morris House Hotel and then booking yourselves a room (see our room rates here). Like the rest of the places mentioned here, we are prepared to help couples make their Valentine’s Day something to remember. So get ready to luxuriate in the elegance of our surroundings before waking up to the coziness and comfort of our catering. All while ensconced in one of Philadelphia’s finest historic buildings.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/valentines-day-things-philadelphia/feed/0Midweek Getaway Ideas For Coupleshttp://morrishousehotel.com/midweek-getaway-ideas-couples/ http://morrishousehotel.com/midweek-getaway-ideas-couples/#commentsTue, 20 Jan 2015 21:11:27 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1346Are you and your significant other looking to get away to enjoy some time to yourselves? Don’t wait for Valentine’s Day to rekindle your romance. Perhaps you have both been working tediously for long and hard hours and need some time to get away and relax together. If this sounds like something both of you can partake in, then why not take some time off for a midweek getaway? Some time off from your day to day activities may be all that you need to do to either grow that much closer to one another, or explore what the world has to offer together.

A vacation is certainly considered to be a time when people can explore the beauties of nature, infrastructures, activities, and most importantly, one another. By taking some time off for a midweek getaway, see Morris House Hotels’ midweek special here, one can take advantage of discounted accommodations for single or multiple days, hotels that offer continental breakfasts and other types of special meal offerings, presidential suites, large extended suites, mini suites, luxury rooms, and other services and amenities. Although these are exquisite offers many hotels provide, there are other activities the couple can take part in.

Getaway To The Outdoors

Many couples also often opt to rent out cabins at lakeside areas. This is a great benefit for those who enjoy sailing, fishing, or swimming. Not to mention, the great sceneries for romantic lunches and dinners. If you’re looking to spend some time with your loved one in the outdoors, then you can guarantee that the buildup of romance will carry back to your own place of privacy.

Another great midweek getaway idea is hiking in the mountains or large hills. Not only is this a great way to enjoy the fresh air, nature, and some beautiful views, but also a great way to incorporate some exercise into your routine. As many people will often choose hotels based on gym inclusion or not, with hiking, one will not have to worry about their lodge having a gym due to it being one of the best workouts there is! When people go hiking, they will usually carry along their lunch or dinner with them. This would be a great way to have your own date session while in the midst of a hike.

Those Who Sweat Together Stay Together

It is scientifically proven that couples who work out together stay together, see report here. Skiing is one of the most adventurous getaways of all. While taking a lift up above the mountainous snow hills, couples can cuddle up in their lift and prepare for one of the most exhilarating experiences of their life. Although skiing may seem like a bit of a bore when watching on TV, it is an entirely different scenario when you’re the one with the ski gear on. The adrenaline rush that is produced while skiing is sure to get both of your hearts to grow that much stronger after experiencing such a rush together. Don’t wait for special occasions to rekindle your romance, make midweek getaways a part of your quality time as a couple.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/midweek-getaway-ideas-couples/feed/0Start Planning Your Winter Wedding Nowhttp://morrishousehotel.com/start-planning-winter-wedding-now/ http://morrishousehotel.com/start-planning-winter-wedding-now/#commentsWed, 14 Jan 2015 18:29:47 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1339It may seem like you have plenty of time to plan your wedding, but winter weddings pose more of a challenge to organize. By planning a winter wedding now and finalizing the details you will ensure you and your guests share the memorable day in harmony and happiness.

Size Does Not Matter But Planning Does

Weddings, large and small, take preparation and time. Winter weddings have some unique advantages and disadvantages. One of the leading reasons to begin planning now depends on the date you choose. Keep in mind that the holiday season’s busy schedules affect everyone, including your wedding party and guests. If the date of your wedding is centered around the Christmas or New Year’s holiday, your guests need plenty of time to allow for these hectic travel days. Many people make holiday plans a year in advance. Whether they go to Grandma’s house every year, or make plans to celebrate New Year’s Eve with special reservations, your guests may need to adjust their personal schedules in order to attend your wedding. Get those save the date cards or invitations out a year in advance if possible. If not, make sure your guests receive theirs at least 8 months in advance.

Venues may also book up early in anticipation of next year’s holiday season. Parties, galas, and other holiday revelry make plans well in advance. If you want a certain venue for your wedding, set the date with them and pay your deposit now to ensure you get the date you want. It is also worth note, that many venues may charge more during the winter months. Places that include warm weather get-a-ways for winter weary folks increase their prices during this peak season. In addition, places that cater to a cold weather crowd, like ski chalets, lodges, or others charge more and book up quickly for groups and group rates.

Keep Flowers & Weather In Mind

Florists offer discounts during the winter months depending on availability. If they don’t know they need to have a fresh bevy of blooms for your big day, chances are that they may not have them in stock, unless ordered in advance. Plan to reserve floral bouquets, boutonnieres, and accent flowers now, especially if you want a non-seasonal arrangement. If you are looking for a winter wedding flower list, go here.

Mother Nature is unpredictable and ways to plan according to weather conditions is equally impossible. One thing many brides and grooms fail to do is purchase wedding insurance. Winter wedding budgets need to include money for this exact purpose. This way if a blizzard occurs and your special day needs to be postponed due to weather, you don’t lose the money and deposits you have spent.

Honeymoon destinations may be booked up to a year in advance, especially if it is a popular wintery weather destination. If your heart will break if you do not spend your honeymoon in a certain resort, hotel, or area, make reservations now to avoid heartache later. Planning now for your honeymoon travel will also be less expensive to book now, especially if it is on a busy winter travel weekend. It would be a shame to have to sit apart on a busy flight due to lack of preplanning.

Winter weddings provide an intimate and romantic appeal, but without planning, they could end up being very disappointing. By planning now and preparing for all the different little things that could make a big difference, you can enjoy your wedding day with peace and love. Your wedding day should be a day you remember forever and that brings a smile to your face for many years to come.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/start-planning-winter-wedding-now/feed/0Chinese Wedding Ceremonies And Traditionshttp://morrishousehotel.com/chinese-wedding-ceremonies-traditions/ http://morrishousehotel.com/chinese-wedding-ceremonies-traditions/#commentsWed, 31 Dec 2014 18:45:04 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1329Weddings in China have changed a lot since the ancient time. However, Chinese weddings now incorporate both traditional Chinese customs and Western wedding customs. Due to the wide range of ethnicities and the vast landmass, wedding ceremonies can vary for different backgrounds, cultures and regions. If you are preparing for a traditional Chinese wedding ceremony, then here are a few things to consider and be aware of.

Taking It Back To The Traditional Origins Of Weddings

Chinese people treat marriage very seriously! This is completely understandable since most Chinese families now have only one child, and this means family members treat their child as if the world revolved around them. When it comes to a wedding, we think it is not only the joyful union of the newlyweds, but also a long term union of two families.

In ancient times, marriages were completely arranged by their parents. When the male’s parents found a girl that they thought would be a good candidate for their son’s wife, they would send a matchmaker to the girl’s home and negotiate the possibility of the marriage. Usually an agreement would be reached if the two people had the same family backgrounds (in terms of wealth, social status, ethnic group, etc). The term “门当户对” (men dang hu dui, literally means “the door must match the opposite party”) is a Chinese saying to describe the traditional practice. This practice reflected a marital culture in the old days: marriage was regarded more like a commercial transaction instead of a match of true love.

Although an arranged marriage is a rather controversial practice since it violates a couple’s freedom to choose, many people do still see the value of the practice because they think a marriage would be more stable if the two people were from similar family backgrounds. Nowadays people have all the freedom to choose their future husband/wife, but their marital values are still influenced by the idea of matchmaking and “men dang hu dui”.

“Men dang hu dui” is just a start. Once both parties agreed on the marriage, the parents of the boy and girl consult a fortuneteller to make sure the couple is compatible. Names, birth dates, birth years, birth places, and zodiacs are analyzed to determine if the couple’s “ming” (fate) is compatible for each other. Once everything is considered perfect, parents of both parties refer to the old calendar and find an auspicious date to arrange the wedding. There is so much more to know more about ancient Chinese weddings, go here for more ancient wedding details.

Modern Day Traditional Chinese Weddings

For a traditional Chinese marriage ritual, there are noteworthy variations such as the traditional color of the bridal gown and the essential decorations.

Wedding Dress

Today, most brides in modern cities such as Beijing dress in white attires owing to the sway of Western culture. Traditionally the bride’s outfit is red right through the ceremony as well as the reception. After the ceremony, the bride wears a red dress. These outfits are just as sophisticated as the American wedding dresses. By tradition, Chinese brides wear something red to accompany the outfits, likewise some American brides wear something blue.

The Venue

Most American wedding ceremonies are held in churches where it is quiet and peaceful. Traditional Chinese weddings are held in large banquet halls in restaurants that are hired prior to the ceremony. Nowadays, several Chinese couples opt to have a wedding ceremony held in open-air locations or other scenic places.

The Ceremony and Reception

Contrary to American wedding ceremonies, the Chinese groom and bride see each other throughout the wedding day and between the preparations for the wedding. The mood is stress-free, the bride and groom can talk to each other and with their guests before everybody is seated for the ceremony. In American weddings, the wedding ceremony is completed with the exchange of vows. Exchange of vows is an essential part of the wedding day, and it is done in silence. However, in a Chinese wedding the momentous part of the ceremony is the reception part characterized with a fête and wishes for success, and it has no ceremonial silence. Contrary to American weddings, the ritual and reception are combined into one event, and it takes place in the same venue. Both American and Chinese banquets have formal seating arrangements with the important tables placed on a stage or in the front.

Speeches

In a Chinese wedding party, the host makes announcements at the reception to entertain guests and the couple. The giving of toasts is a modern addition to the Chinese wedding ceremony. This habit is borrowed from the American way of toasting. In an American wedding reception, speeches are made by the groom, bride’s father, the best man and in most cases the maid of honor.

Wedding Gifts

In Chinese weddings, there are no wedding registries. Money is given as a gift in red envelopes. Gift cards or checks are not used in Chinese it is just hard cash. Chinese couples spend a lot of their time after the reception to count how much money they have been given by their relatives and friends.

After the Reception

In American weddings bidding, the couple goodbye is imperative. This is celebrated by decorating the bridal car with streamers, ribbons, and washable paint and cheering as they drive away. The party can go on even after they leave. However, in Chinese weddings, the bride, groom and their relatives form a guard of honor at the doorway as guests leave. This guard of honor lasts for a couple of minutes after the tenth, and the final dish of the wedding is served. It is inappropriate to leave a Chinese wedding before the final meal is served.

Enjoying The Differences In Culture

At Morris House Hotel, we relish in hosting a variety of weddings as a way of celebrating different cultures, go here and here for different wedding traditions. We are an ideal venue for your dream wedding as we always endeavor to ensure the smoothness of your dream wedding.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/chinese-wedding-ceremonies-traditions/feed/0Happy New Year: New Year’s Eve Party Themeshttp://morrishousehotel.com/happy-new-year-new-years-eve-party-themes/ http://morrishousehotel.com/happy-new-year-new-years-eve-party-themes/#commentsFri, 19 Dec 2014 17:53:06 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1322There is nothing quite as exciting as planning a New Year’s Eve party. A New Year’s Eve party is the perfect opportunity to get together with friends and family to celebrate the past year and plan for the New Year. Planning a party is also a great way to let your creativity shine, but sometimes it is difficult to come up with new themes as a way to ring in the New Year. In case you are still planning for your party, here are 3 fun ideas to help you get started with your New Year’s Eve party.

Ring In The New Year With A Fun Party

Masquerade Ball

Masquerade balls are not only fun, but a masquerade ball themed New Year’s Eve party is the perfect opportunity to wear your favorite gown or tux as well as beautiful masquerade masks. If you want to host a masquerade ball this New Year’s Eve, here are a few tips to help with the planning:

Send invitations that are designed to look like masks

Plan the color scheme and the decorations early, so you can let your guests know what colors to wear. For example, popular colors for New Year’s are black and silver or black and white.

Make sure to order plenty of masks and have them available at the door, so your guests can put them on as soon as they enter the party. Diyfashion has some great diy masquerade mask tips.

Choose party favors in the same colors as the masks and if you provide hats, make sure they have a slightly “elegant” look to them.

If it’s in the budget, hire a catering service to serve the food.

The perfect meal for a masquerade ball is a sit-down dinner. The table should be set with china and champagne flutes. The main course should be pork loin and do not forget to serve the other traditional foods for a lucky new year.

Poker Party

A poker themed New Year’s Eve Party is a fun way to allow your guests to relax on New Year’s Eve. Playing for a charity is always a good choice and there are a couple of different ways to handle the bets and the donations. For example, have your guests donate their winnings to the charity you have chosen or you can have each guest trade in $10 or $20 for poker chips and all of the proceeds for the chips will be donated to a charity.

Decorating for a poker party: place green felt on the top of several folding tables. Use green, silver and white streamers and balloons.

How to dress: casual is the way to go for a poker party, but don’t forget to wear your sunglasses so your eyes don’t give away that you have the winning hand.

Food: the food should be simple, such as a variety of appetizers and snacks on the tables. If you are serving a meal, make it simple, such as sandwiches and a few different types of salad.

Murder Mystery

Treat your guests to a suspenseful evening that will keep them guessing all evening about what will happen next. Download one of the murder mystery game kits that includes instructions. There are several options to choose from, such as an old west shoot-out themed murder mystery. Decorate according to the theme of the murder mystery. For example, if you choose the old west shoot-out theme, use rustic decorations, light the fireplace and decorate with gingham table clothes. The dress code should be causal and comfortable. The food served should coordinate with the murder mystery. For example, the food for an old west shoot-out could include BBQ, such as a BBQ brisket or ribs, baked beans and potato salad.

Have Fun & Happy New Year

Whichever theme you choose as your New Year’s Eve party, , make it fun and memorable. If you expect a lot of guests to attend, consider reserving a conference room at a local hotel or banquet hall, time might be limited now but you never know unless you try. Happy New Year!

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/happy-new-year-new-years-eve-party-themes/feed/0Holiday Party Themeshttp://morrishousehotel.com/holiday-party-themes/ http://morrishousehotel.com/holiday-party-themes/#commentsFri, 28 Nov 2014 20:03:47 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1305In our previous blog we talked about corporate holiday party themes, now, we are sharing some fun ideas you can incorporate into your own holiday party this year. The holiday season is the perfect time to get together with friends, family, and loved ones. But ,with so many tired holiday theme parties packed into the season, how can you keep your party memorable and exciting? Try any one of these creative holiday party ideas to give guests an experience they won’t soon forget.

10 Party Themes To Get You In The Holiday Spirit

1. Deck the Halls

Between lights, fresh pine, and sparkled adornments, decor helps set the mood. Bring warm memories and creative fun to your holiday party by encouraging guests to create decorations. Incorporate different stations, including floral arranging, wreath making, and ornament crafting, to ensure everyone has something to work on.

2. Celebrate Holiday Brunch

Who said holiday celebrations only occur at night? Mix things up by hosting a brunch holiday party. Include holiday-inspired items, like spiced eggnog and pumpkin scones, in the party’s menu and create a short-and-sweet time line to keep guests entertained.

3. Go Back in Time

If you’ve wanted to revisit the holidays of your youth, now is the time. Reinvent holiday parties by choosing a favorite era (the 50’s or 60’s perhaps?) and building your theme around it. Use vintage clothing and tableware found at thrift stores to give your party a truly retro feel.

4. Naughty & Nice

Santa may be making a list and checking it twice, but all you need is a guest list to get this party going. Offer guests envelopes with randomly selected “naughty” and “nice” cards. Then, host party games, like trivia or charades, with the two teams competing against each other. Don’t forget to send the winning team home with holiday treats.

5. A World Tour

Celebrating the holidays is more fun when incorporating your very own world tour into the mix. Create exploration stations in your event space to mimic a one-room tour of the world’s holiday customs. Showcase Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Thanksgiving into your party by including traditional foods, decorations, and a posted explanation of the tradition.

6. It’s A Wrap

While often seen as a tedious task, wrapping gifts is more fun with friends. Encourage loved ones to bring their holiday gifts to an official gift wrapping party while enjoying food, drinks, and games. Add excitement to the party’s events by hosting a human gift wrapping competition (yes, wrapping friends in colorful paper is always entertaining). For extensive wrap holiday party ideas visit Hallmark.com and get your wrap party underway!

7. Create a Holiday Island Getaway

When the weather outside may be frightful, imagining yourself on a Caribbean island is delightful! Transform your holiday celebration into a secluded tropical getaway with beach-themed decor, seasonal songs performed on steel drums, and an island-inspired menu.

8. All Aboard! A Holiday Train Ride

A Ball & Good Cheer

From imagining a journey to the North Pole to celebrating the holiday tradition that is the toy train, consider hosting a holiday party focused on winter wonders. Transform your event space with model trains, snowy accents, and magical lighting to create a memorable atmosphere.

9. Masquerade Ball

Once regarded as a holiday tradition by many, hosting a masquerade ball has all but fallen out of fashion. Bring it back this year by instructing guests to dress up in elaborate costumes, don masks, and dance the night away with friends.

10. Good Cheer Party

Above all else, the holiday season is about giving to others, not receiving. Make a statement this year by throwing a good cheer party where guests are encouraged to bring new toys and nonperishable food to be donated to needy families.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/holiday-party-themes/feed/0Fun Corporate Holiday Party Themeshttp://morrishousehotel.com/fun-holiday-party-corporate-themes/ http://morrishousehotel.com/fun-holiday-party-corporate-themes/#commentsFri, 14 Nov 2014 17:33:03 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1295A company party holiday is a great time to thank key stakeholders for their support and help over the past year. Instead of doing the standard drinks, food and music, throw a theme party. The party offers a fun way to build a better relationship with stakeholders. Here are some creative, fun and unique company holiday party themes that you can have this year.

So Many Themes To Pick From!

Masquerade Ball

For the fancy corporate holiday celebration, incorporate decorative masks to adorn the faces of all guests. Try to incorporate a lot of bold and bright colors like gold and purple. Pull off this theme with much enthusiasm and energy, for a grand extravaganza.

Carnival

Give your stakeholders the chance to be kids again and transform the party space into a carnival. Rent entertainment booths and games, and let the rental equipment staff run the entire event. Serve fun foods like popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs and soda fountain drinks.

Food Stations

Just as interaction is crucial to the entertainment factor, it is also important in the catering and food factor. Participation is the name of the party, and food stations must top the list. Customize your own station with a concept that you love. See Elizabeth Anne Designs for some great food bar/stations ideas.

Santa’s Workshop

This theme centers on charity. Make the theme of the corporate holiday party about giving back. Request every guest to bring at least a toy for a child in need this holiday, or bring food and clothing to less fortunate families. At the end of the party, all gifts will be donated to the respective families and children.

Winter Wonderland

Turn your corporate holiday party into a winter wonderland. Line the entrance and walkways with snowflake luminaries or white lights. Hang twinkle lights around the door frames and chandeliers. Try mulled wine and spiked hot cocoa instead of room temperature vinos, wines and beers.

Circus Themed Party

Create a fun environment with different entertainment options. Let the employees dress as different circus characters to contest for an award. This dazzling theme is sure leave the guests and employees raving about the visual effects and ambiance of the party for months. Check out more ideas about how to host an adult theme circus party here.

Around The World Cuisine

The global cuisine theme is extremely popular among workers, and the holidays are no different. It is a fantastic way to make a holiday party stand out from numerous other holiday parties that workers must attend during this season of merriment.

Hawaiian Holiday Party Theme

Let everyone celebrate the prospect of a holiday vacation and the spirit of the season with a tropical theme such as ‘Holiday in Hawaii’ or, ‘Caribbean Holiday Party’.

Need A Little Help?

At Morris House Hotel, we can help you plan your 2014 corporate holiday party themes, which your employees will remember for years. We offer quality meals, state of the art conference rooms and professional staff to handle your needs. See our brochure here.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/fun-holiday-party-corporate-themes/feed/0I Found The Venue: Winter Wedding Venue Planninghttp://morrishousehotel.com/found-venue-winter-wedding-venue-planning/ http://morrishousehotel.com/found-venue-winter-wedding-venue-planning/#commentsFri, 24 Oct 2014 14:24:59 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1288So, you’ve just gotten engaged, and the butterflies are still fluttering. Time is standing still for a moment, and then, the planning begins. You’ve decided to have a winter wedding, but that’s just a piece of the puzzle, and all the little details can quickly become overwhelming. The important thing to remember is to relax, and start with the biggest details first, most importantly, the wedding venue. Your venue will determine the feel and tone of the entire day. Therefore, it is one of the most important decisions you can make, and one of the first things you should decide on. So here are some things to consider before you say I Do to the venue.

Numbers & Venues Go Together

Are you having an intimate ceremony with your closest friends and family, or will it be a full blown affair complete with hundreds of guests? You may fall in love with a quaint bed and breakfast or intimate restaurant banquet room, but if it cannot hold the amount of people you need, it will not work. Every venue has a maximum capacity (and some a minimum), and it’s important to know what that is before asking to tour it.The location of your wedding plays a big part, and will help narrow down the search. Will you be traveling, or staying at home? Would your guests be willing to travel? These are all important things to consider, and will help narrow down a location. In addition, the geography of where you have your winter wedding is key. Your location affects the type of weather you will experience. Keep in mind that depending on where you choose, the venue has to be accessible and snow and ice need to be cleared away so that your guests can show up without too much disruption. For more information about finding a venue go here.

The Style Of The Wedding Will Lead You To The Venue

As mentioned before, the venue sets the tone for the event, so choose something that fits your style. A hotel banquet hall is probably not the best choice for a vintage theme, while a beautiful beach house may not be the place to create a winter wonderland. Whether it’s quirky, elegant or simple, it’s your wedding, so choose a venue that reflects your personality and what you want for the day. Are you saying I do in a church or temple? If so, you will also need a space for the reception, which usually means two venues. Are you looking for a modern loft with views of the skyline, a majestic castle or a beautiful garden that will transport you back in time? Also, winters in Philadelphia can be chilly, so it’s important to consider the elements. An outdoor wedding may quickly have guests seeking warmer quarters.

Don’t Stress We’ve Got You Covered

Wedding planning shouldn’t be stressful, and finding the perfect venue can make or break the experience. If you’re searching for that perfect venue in the Philadelphia area, the Morris House Hotel is a top choice. The French inspired courtyard can be transformed for a fairy tale ceremony, while a team of professionals is standing by to cater to your every need. Nestled in the heart of the city, this historic landmark is a luxurious, charming location, perfect for the wedding of your dreams, see here for our venue options.

]]>http://morrishousehotel.com/found-venue-winter-wedding-venue-planning/feed/010 Unusual Venues For Your Office Holiday Partyhttp://morrishousehotel.com/10-unusual-venues-office-holiday-party/ http://morrishousehotel.com/10-unusual-venues-office-holiday-party/#commentsTue, 21 Oct 2014 17:36:50 +0000http://morrishousehotel.com/?p=1283With the holiday season rapidly approaching, more and more people are beginning to plan their holiday parties. If you are in charge of planning a party for an office, then you might be tired of the mediocre Christmas celebrations that you’ve had in the past. However, with a bit of planning and creativity, you can come up with a unique venue to rent for the big event that is sure to excite everyone in attendance. Here are 10 unique ideas that are guaranteed to get your creative juices flowing:

Top Ten Venues for Your Next Office Party

1. World Famous Bedroom Arcade

This New York venue is appropriate for groups of approximately 20 people, and it consists of a colorfully decorated apartment that provides hours of fun with their classic video games like Pac-Man, Frogger, and more.

2. High Roller

This Las Vegas venue is extremely unique, as it is a hotel/casino in the sky, inside a special pod. This venue can accommodate up to 40 guests, and comes complete with a bar and bartender.

3. Leica Store

Located in Los Angeles, this venue is a combination of a retail store and an art gallery. It consists of a large area with an attractive “store front,” a VIP lounge and even a coffee bar.

4. Weylin B. Seymour’s

This unique building was originally a bank in the 1800’s, and it was restored to its original condition to serve as a beautiful classic place to hold the ultimate parties.

5. Urban Putt

This San Francisco venue is perfect if your employees are active. This indoor mini-golf course comes complete with two dining rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

6. Fair Market

This venue appears to be a huge warehouse, but it is really so much more. It’s the perfect space for large parties, which includes a greenhouse, and audio-video capabilities.

7. Chill Ice House

This unique Toronto-based venue is perfect if your employees like beautiful ice sculptures. Chill Ice House has a bar, customized ice sculptures, and exotic drinks inside this beautiful see-through building.

8. Neon Museum

If you would rather not hold your Las Vegas holiday party at a hotel/casino, then this large outdoor area that contains 60 classic neon signs is an amazing alternative. It can accommodate up to 200 seated guests.

9. The Reserve

This former Bank of America features a huge vault, which is great at keeping guests entertained. The space can hold up to 550 guests and has 3 separate party rooms.

One Last Venue, Including Philly

10. Palomino Island

If you’re looking for an exotic and unique venue, then this gorgeous Puerto Rico location might be the thing. The entire island can be rented for a certain number of hours. If you opt to hold your next holiday venue on Palomino Island, there is catering, live music and a buffet.

So, as you can see, there is no need to settle for a boring holiday party that puts your employees to sleep rather than opting for a venue that allows them to have fun. By selecting one of these unique ideas, or something similar, you can rest assured that everyone will fully enjoy the holiday party this year, and they will look forward to the big event again next year. Additionally, Morris House Hotel is a great place to plan the ultimate unique holiday party, if you’re in the Philadelphia area. See here for more information about corporate holiday party.